When machines are correctly matched to the site and operators are trained and supervised, 7,000 to 9,000 or more seedlings can be planted each day. The condition of the planting site is important in selecting the proper size of machine. Plant old fields and cropland with light duty planters pulled by wheeled tractors of 20 to 100 hp. Rough sites require the use of heavy duty planters pulled by large farm tractors or crawler tractors of 50 to 350 hp.
Seedlings are planted with machines using two systems: a manual system, where the seedling is placed into the trench by hand, or an automated system, where seedlings are placed in "fingers" that then place the seedling into the planting trench.
Frequently check planting performance to insure proper planting, particularly when soil type, texture, moisture, or amount of harvest debris changes on the site. Maintain proper adjustment by carefully checking planting performance under actual site conditions. Adjust packing wheels to close completely the planting trench from top to bottom. Be sure seedlings are planted straight and at the proper depth. Follow the planter and use a shovel to open the planting trench to judge root placement. "L-rooting" is a common problem with machine planting. Adjust the planter to open the trench to maximum depth and make sure the seedlings are placed at the proper depth and released quickly so the roots are not dragged along the trench.
